Silver Falls State Park Campground sits 20 miles east of Mehama at 1,600 feet elevation in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. The area receives about 80 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush, verdant forests surrounding the campsites. Winter temperatures average 33-45°F while summer ranges from 52-82°F, making year-round yurt camping near Mehama possible despite seasonal weather variations.
What to do
Disc golf course access: Milo McIver State Park Campground offers competitive-level disc golf facilities just a short drive from Mehama. "Probably the easiest accessibility to the most awesome waterfalls per few square miles in Oregon. Ample Parking and many different falls and trails to choose from," notes Jeremy A., highlighting the park's dual recreational appeal.
Waterfall hiking adventures: Silver Falls State Park Campground features multiple waterfall viewing opportunities beyond the main Trail of Ten Falls. "THE most beautiful park in Oregon that we've seen! Hiked for 5 hours! BEWARE: It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain," advises Melissa L., emphasizing preparedness for potentially slick conditions.
Water recreation options: Waterloo County Park provides river access for fishing and swimming. "Great little spot for a family get together and overnight stay... On the river good fishing... but be aware... current is swift.. swimmers seem to get in trouble every year here," cautions Len S., highlighting the need for water safety awareness.
What campers like
Lakeside camping accessibility: Southshore at Detroit Lake offers direct water access from many sites. "This is a great spot for mostly private sites with plenty of shade and close proximity to the water. Some sites have the parking spot up above the actual site and you have to walk down a short set of stairs to access," explains Julie W., detailing the unique site layout.
Heated yurt accommodations: Champoeg State Heritage Area Campground provides comfortable yurt options when tent camping isn't feasible. "The yurts are heated, and a couple of them are pet friendly, which is great for us! There is a small table in each yurt. There's a couch and a bunk bed for sleeping arrangements, with the lower bunk larger than the top bunk," describes Lana N.
Diverse activity offerings: Camp Dakota features multiple recreation options beyond standard camping. "We had a great time at Camp Dakota. Our yurt was comfortable and we enjoyed disc golf, archery, axe throwing, a fun general store and an escape room. We came in thinking it was a little on the spendy side, to ending up thinking it was a bargain," shares Bjorn S.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds near Mehama close during winter months or have limited facilities. "The campground is only open in the summer and as of 2018 has some wonderful updates on Loop 'A' and Loop 'C' (new tables, and site pads, and fire rings)," reports Cindy U. about Whitcomb Creek County Park.
Site accessibility challenges: Whitcomb Creek County Park has varying site layouts that affect camping setup. "Nice campground lots of spaces and not over crowded. Only complaint is that the camp sites are pretty small. They were mostly paved driveways which are good if you have a trailer but isn't as convenient with a tent," notes Shirley.
Weather considerations: Rain gear is essential even during summer months. "It's WET, so bring your wet weather gear, and good, sturdy hiking shoes for slippery terrain," emphasizes Melissa L. about Silver Falls State Park trails, underscoring the importance of proper footwear and rain protection.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Camp Dakota offers supervised activities for children of various ages. "We did a group site and once we got the wristbands on the kids, they went off and explored and had a lot of fun. The staff is #1 safe, then #2 they are super fun," reports Jason S., highlighting safety protocols.
Playground access: Waterloo County Park includes playground facilities alongside camping. "Campground with something for everyone! Right on the river for swimming or fishing. If you drive up the road, you can float down the river to your campground! This park even has a disc golf course to enjoy while you camp. There's a park area with a playground for the kids to play," shares Chrissy T.
Swimming opportunities: Safe water access points vary by location. "We love hiking the trails and our kids love the playground and river swimming!" notes April F. about Silver Falls State Park, pointing out multiple recreation options for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Milo McIver State Park offers well-separated RV sites. "The campground is well maintained and the hosts have been great each time I have been there. Estacada lake is within walking distance, and there is salmon fishing within driving distance inside of the park," explains Hahns R., noting the multiple fishing opportunities.
RV hookup limitations: Whitcomb Creek County Park lacks water and electrical hookups. "There is not water or electricity, bring it in and pack it out. Can accommodate big rigs, or small tents. There are four pull through sites," notes Cindy U., emphasizing self-sufficiency requirements.
Level site availability: Emerald Valley RV Park provides consistently level sites. "Overall site was clean and well maintained. Sites were level and good WiFi. Bathhouse was clean and modern. Some road noise since it's close to the highway," reports George L., highlighting both advantages and potential drawbacks.
